Overview

The Rural Ontario Development (ROD) Program provides Cost-Share funding to support activities that create strong rural businesses in Ontario by funding projects that:

  • address barriers to economic development
  • build capacity to attract, retain and expand businesses
  • better position rural businesses to attract or retain investment
  • support jobs being attracted and retained in rural businesses

The ROD Program is application-based with all applications assessed based on these guidelines. Projects are recommended based on eligibility criteria. Funds will be allocated on a first-come, first-served basis to eligible Applicants and Projects (please see section 7: Selection process for more information). Submission of an application does not guarantee funding.

Businesses can get 35% of eligible costs, up to a maximum of $10,000 in funding for a Project under the ROD Program - Business Development.

Applicants may submit a maximum of one application under the ROD Program; however, an Applicant may select multiple Project types within the application.

Projects for the first intake are required to be completed by March 31, 2026.

Please read these guidelines before completing your application form.

All applications are assessed based on the following guidelines. These guidelines and related application form are subject to change without notice.

Please refer to the glossary section for any capitalized terms. These terms are defined in detail to ensure clarity and consistency throughout our materials.